Governor Spanberger Announces Phasecraft to Establish U.S. Headquarters in Arlington

Commonwealth of Virginia Office of Governor Abigail Spanberger FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Monday, September 21, 2026 Office of the Governor CONTACT: press@governor.virginia.gov Virginia Economic Development Partnership CONTACT: TLevinson@vedp.org Phasecraft CONTACT: meredith@phasecraft.io Governor Spanberger Announces Phasecraft to Establish U.S. Headquarters in Arlington  British Quantum Computing Software Company Will Create 19 Jobs in Arlington County RICHMOND, VA — Governor Abigail Spanberger today announced that Phasecraft — a leading quantum algorithms company — plans to create 19 new jobs through a $113,000 investment in Arlington County. Founded by researchers from the United Kingdom’s quantum science community, Phasecraft develops algorithms for quantum computers. Their solutions have applications in pioneering areas including materials simulation, chemical reaction modeling, and optimization, aiming to bridge the gap between theoretical quantum computing and tangible industrial applications. “Virginia continues to grow as a global hub for cutting-edge companies and groundbreaking technologies,” said Governor Abigail Spanberger. “I’m thrilled to welcome Phasecraft to the Commonwealth and look forward to seeing all they accomplish as they grow and build on Virginia’s world-class innovation ecosystem. This investment will create new high-tech jobs, attract other leading companies to Virginia, and strengthen the Commonwealth’s growing role in bringing next-generation technologies to market.” Governor Spanberger recently celebrated Virginia’s rise to #3 in CNBC’s “America’s Top States for Business” rankings, reflecting a strong business climate that continues to attract high-caliber companies to the Commonwealth. Since taking office, Governor Spanberger has announced more than $5 billion in new business investment and more than 3,200 new jobs across the Commonwealth. “Quantum computing has the potential to transform industries from energy to advanced materials, and Phasecraft’s work sits at the center of that opportunity,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Carrie Chenery. “By choosing Northern Virginia to anchor its U.S. footprint, Phasecraft gains access to the talent, federal partners, research assets, and customer base needed to scale cutting-edge technology from breakthrough science into practical solutions.” “Phasecraft’s new Arlington HQ represents a significant milestone for the company. As our work with agencies across the U.S. government and the private sector continues to grow, so too will our American workforce,” said Phasecraft Cofounder and CEO Ashley Montanaro. “We’re thrilled to now call Virginia home as the company continues to grow rapidly.” Through the establishment of its Virginia office, Phasecraft aims to reach new clients and benefit from proximity to stakeholders in industry and government. The company cited Virginia’s skilled workforce, world-class research universities, and strategic location as key decision factors in this investment. Phasecraft’s new office and continued U.S. expansion follows their growing partnerships across the federal government and agencies. Earlier this year, Phasecraft announced the company joined the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) program to help answer the question “Is utility-scale quantum computing possible by 2033?” As part of QBI, Phasecraft will leverage its proprietary software and algorithms to inform verification and validation efforts. Around the same time, the Advanced Research Projects Agency–Energy announced that Phasecraft was selected for their Quantum Computing for Computational Chemistry program, to develop highly optimized quantum algorithms for simulating and discovering new advanced catalysts for use in the energy sector. “Arlington County welcomes British quantum computing company Phasecraft, which has selected Ballston for their U.S. headquarters,” said Arlington County Board Chairman Matt de Ferranti. “Phasecraft will join a growing number of international companies that have recently made Arlington their home due to direct access to unique assets like specialized talent, key federal agencies, and strong transit infrastructure.” “I am delighted to welcome Phasecraft’s new U.S. headquarters to Arlington County,” said Senator Barbara A. Favola. “This expansion reflects the strategic investments by Arlington and the Commonwealth in building a talented workforce and creating an environment where businesses can grow and succeed. From our top-notch public education system and multi-modal transportation network to our commitment to lifelong learning, Arlington offers the infrastructure and quality of life that enables businesses and residents to thrive. I look forward to seeing Phasecraft call Arlington home and play an important role in protecting our national security.” “We welcome Phasecraft's arrival in Arlington,” said Delegate Patrick Hope. “With their groundbreaking work in developing quantum algorithms for real-world advantage, they are a perfect fit for the region's vibrant tech ecosystem. Arlington continues to prove itself as a premier destination for next-generation technology and innovation.” The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Arlington County to secure the project for Virginia and will support Phasecraft’s job creation through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program (VJIP), which provides consultative services and funding to companies creating new jobs in order to support employee recruitment and training activities. As a business incentive supporting economic development, VJIP reduces the human resource costs of new and expanding companies. VJIP is state funded, demonstrating Virginia’s commitment to enhancing job opportunities for citizens.  ###

Virginia Office of Governor | P.O. Box 1475 | Richmond, VA 23218 US Unsubscribe | Constant Contact Data Notice

Banished to alien lands – Trump’s secret deportation deals | First Thing

Support independent journalism Support us   First Thing: Banished to alien lands – Trump’s secret deportation deals

Jem Bartholomew   Good morning. After a plane journey in shackles, an Iranian woman found herself in the middle of Africa in a country she did not know existed. She is one of thousands of people deported from the US on the back of shadowy deals made with dozens of countries. Human rights lawyers describe these so-called third-country national arrangements as part of a “show of force” by the US, intended to discourage migrants and asylum seekers from entering. People from Peru and Colombia have been sent to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. On 20 August, four Cubans, a Brazilian and a Cameroonian refused to disembark in Liberia, and were sent to Equatorial Guinea instead. The Guardian joined 23 other media organisations in the Deportation Project, a joint investigation coordinated by Forbidden Stories. The consortium reviewed documents and interviewed more than 100 people on the US drive to extinguish unauthorised immigration. At what scale are third-country deportations happening? Since returning to office in 2025, Donald Trump’s administration has deported more than 25,000 people to countries that are not their own. Which countries are people being deported to? The Trump administration has struck 35 deals allowing it to deport migrants and asylum seekers to countries where they often have no connections. Is this legal? A US federal appeals court ruled on Friday that the Trump administration’s third-country removals policy was unlawful. A three-judge panel unanimously agreed that it violated due process. But the government has 90 days to appeal against the court’s decision, and is expected to do so.

European spy chiefs warn Moscow is planning more decisive action against Nato There are fears Vladimir Putin’s regime is making preparations for more decisive action in Europe. Photograph: Mikhail Metzel/Pool Sputnik Kremlin/AP European intelligence officials have raised the possibility of an imminent Russian test of Nato, with one saying a potential attack could come in a matter of “months, not years”, the Guardian’s Shaun Walker reports. The warnings come after Poland’s prime minister, Donald Tusk, told parliament that intelligence assessments suggested Russia might launch an attack with drones or missiles on Nato territory in the coming months. The escalation fears come as the UN general assembly convenes in New York later this week, and amid intensifying airstrikes on both sides of Russia’s war on Ukraine. How imminent is the threat? Normunds Mežviets, the director general of the VDD, Latvia’s state security service conceded there were signs that Moscow was making preparations for more decisive action in Europe, but said it was not clear whether the plans were simply part of a destabilisation strategy. “It’s still an open question if they have direct and concrete plans or if it’s just within the context of their overall attempts to spread fear and uncertainty in western society,” he said.

Middle East braces for more violence as Iran claims US is planning to renew bombing campaign Smoke rises from the fuel storage depot at King Khalid international airport in Riyadh after missile and drone strikes by Iran-backed Houthi rebels on Saturday. Photograph: Reuters Governments across the Middle East are bracing for an escalation of violence after Iran claimed it had received intelligence that the US was preparing for a renewed bombing campaign against it. Keeping his options open, Trump reportedly told a Fox News reporter “very big things are going to be happening in the not-so-distant future” and that the options he was considering were “wiping Iran out, letting them rot economically or making a deal”. What has Iran said? The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned that if an attack did take place, “all US bases and interests in the region will become targets of continuous, effective and painful attacks without any limitations or considerations”. What has caused the outburst of sabre-rattling? It appears to have been prompted by attacks on the Saudi capital, Riyadh, by Yemen’s Iranian-backed Houthi rebels. The US largely regards the Houthis as a proxy Iranian force.

In other news … Friedrich Merz is facing growing calls to quit. Photograph: Hannibal Hanschke/EPA Friedrich Merz, Germany’s chancellor, has vowed to stay in office, despite heavy losses for his conservatives in two state elections, one to the far right and the other to a leftwing party. Gavin Newsom, the California governor, has signed off on a package of bills aimed at bolstering election security, including measures to block federal political interference. Eighteen people have been arrested in association with the assassination of the Haitian president, Jovenel Moïse, who was killed in July 2021, according to US officials. Starbucks workers say their health insurance premiums have soared this year, in some cases more than doubling, according to a survey conducted by Starbucks Workers United.

Stat of the day: 2.7m more lives could be saved in next pandemic if vaccines are shared more fairly, says report Fast-tracking vaccine development could massively cut death rates, say scientists. Photograph: Jacob King/PA An extra 2.7 million lives could be saved in the next pandemic if countries share vaccines in a less selfish way, a new study has found – although the death toll in richer countries would rise. Researchers modelling a hypothetical global outbreak of flu found that fast-tracking vaccine development could cut deaths from 58.5m to 23.9m.

Building Power: They fought against datacenters. Now they are running for local offices A protest against a planned datacenter in the Ellenwood neighborhood of Decatur, Georgia last. Photograph: Erik S Lesser/EPA A national datacenter revolt – which has built coalitions between environmentalists and Nimbys, conservatives and democratic socialists – is turning some community organizers into political hopefuls, Claire Wang writes. Dozens of datacenter activists are running for offices held by incumbents that they feel have disregarded issues of affordability, environment destructive and the overreach of tech power.

Don’t miss this: Is culture alive? ‘Language is not only a fundamental part of culture; it’s also our most powerful means of transmitting cultural information.’ Illustration: Elia Barbieri “Cultural traditions endure because they share a fundamental property with biological organisms. They are alive. Not metaphorically, but literally,” writes Jonathan Loh for the big idea. “I believe that human culture isn’t just an accidental add-on to organic life; rather, it’s a separate expression of life in its own right.”

Climate check: EPA let Bayer pick regulations for destructive weedkiller, documents show Soybean crops in Sioux County, Iowa, this month. Photograph: Jerry Mennenga/ZUMA Press Wire/Shutterstock The Environmental Protection Agency allowed Bayer to pick from a menu of regulation options for the controversial and destructive weedkiller dicamba, internal agency documents reveal – then it put Bayer’s choices into a proposed federal rule. The Center for Biological Diversity has brought a lawsuit over the issue.

Last Thing: ‘I got married in it’ – Guardian readers on their favorite thrifted fashion finds Alicia wore a $5 dress on her wedding day. Photograph: Alicia The anti-poverty charity Oxfam is challenging people to avoid buying new clothes for 30 days and choose preloved pieces instead. The Guardian asked readers about their best thrifted finds. “From a distance it looks pink, but as you get closer you realise it’s swirls of pink dots creating an optical illusion,” Alicia said, of her $5 wedding dress.

Sign up First Thing is delivered to thousands of inboxes every weekday. If you’re not already signed up, subscribe now.

Save on an All-access digital subscription For a limited time only you can become an All-access digital supporter for just $7.50 a month for the first six months. Unlock unlimited access to the Guardian news app and Feast cooking app, all while supporting the free press for less. Claim offer today

Get in touch   If you have any questions or comments about any of our newsletters please email newsletters@theguardian.com   Manage your emails | Unsubscribe You are receiving this email because you are a subscriber to First Thing. Guardian News & Media Limited - a member of Guardian Media Group PLC. Registered Office: Kings Place, 90 York Way, London, N1 9GU. Registered in England No. 908396

Governor Spanberger Secures More Than $15 Million Investment by TECHnista in Danville

Commonwealth of Virginia Office of Governor Abigail Spanberger FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Friday, September 18, 2026 CONTACT: press@governor.virginia.gov Governor Spanberger Secures More Than $15 Million Investment by TECHnista in Danville Education Consulting Firm to Support Next-Generation Workforce Development Initiatives & National Program Expansion  Earlier this Year, Virginia Jumped to #3 in CNBC’s “America’s Top States for Business” Rankings  RICHMOND, VA — Governor Abigail Spanberger today announced TECHnista — an education consulting company specializing in K-12 curriculum and workforce ecosystem development for defense and advanced manufacturing industries — will invest $15.1 million in Danville. To accommodate its growth, the company plans to lease the 30,000 square-foot Cyber Park Shell Building in the City of Danville, owned by the Danville-Pittsylvania Regional Industrial Facility Authority, and plans to create at least 22 new jobs in the community. “TECHnista’s expansion in Danville speaks to the strength of Virginia’s workforce and the stable, predictable environment for business growth here in the Commonwealth,” said Governor Abigail Spanberger. “By investing more than $15 million, TECHnista is helping connect classroom learning to real-world careers while strengthening the talent pipeline that supports our nation’s growth and defense. I am proud that Virginia continues to be the place where companies choose to grow, scale, and prepare the next generation for success.” Earlier this summer, Governor Spanberger celebrated Virginia’s rise to #3 in CNBC’s “America’s Top States for Business” rankings, reflecting a strong business climate that continues to attract high-caliber companies to the Commonwealth. Since taking office, Governor Spanberger has announced more than $5 billion in new business investment and more than 3,200 new jobs across the Commonwealth. “TECHnista shows what innovation looks like by bridging the divide among education, workforce development, and industry in a way that addresses current and future talent needs,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Carrie Chenery. “This expansion further reinforces Virginia’s reputation as an incubator for advanced manufacturing and workforce innovation. We are excited to support TECHnista’s continued growth as it expands its national reach from Southern Virginia and helps prepare students and educators for the careers that will drive America’s economic competitiveness.” “TECHnista was founded on the belief that we can strengthen America’s future by connecting K-12 education, workforce development, and the needs of our nation’s most critical industries,” said TECHnista Founder and CEO Kelsey Robertson. “This investment marks an exciting new chapter for TECHnista as we expand our capabilities in the City of Danville and prepare to scale our programs to communities across the country. We are proud to grow our team, deepen our roots in the region, and play a role in developing the skilled workforce needed to support America’s defense and advanced manufacturing industries.” TECHnista’s latest expansion comes on the heels of a five-year federal contract to implement the Manufacturing and Engineering Education Reimagined for All (MEERA) pilot program, secured in 2024. To support that initiative, TECHnista established a National Training and Technology Center in Pittsylvania County. MEERA currently operates in seven states and one U.S. territory with an anticipated enrollment of more than 18,000 students for the 2026–2027 school year. Through these efforts, TECHnista is helping build the nation’s future advanced manufacturing workforce pipeline by aligning K-12 education with industry needs, deploying MEERA middle and high school programs that introduce students to manufacturing technologies and careers, and establishing Build Freedom Centers that provide educator training, program support, and industry engagement in participating states and communities. “Preparing our children for the jobs of tomorrow requires a different approach to education – one that uses hands-on, applied learning that builds interest, understanding, and retention,” said Southern Virginia Regional Alliance Executive Director Linda Green. “TECHnista’s innovative approach to curriculum development and teacher training is bringing robotics, automation, and emerging technologies into the classroom, and we are proud to see a Southern Virginia company growing here at home while expanding its impact in states across the nation.” “This year has been another transformative year for Pittsylvania County and TECHnista is part of that success story,” said Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors Chairman Robert Tucker. “We are so proud to announce that TECHnista will be expanding its operations and investing $15.1 million in capital investments and creating 22 new jobs. This County is proud to be a part of TECHnista’s evolving pipeline for advanced manufacturing. TECHnista has had great success over the last couple of years, and we are so excited to see this company grow and teach students in this County and beyond. Thank you TECHnista for choosing Danville-Pittsylvania County to expand your business. We are so proud of your accomplishments.” “I am thrilled to announce that TECHnista has chosen Danville-Pittsylvania County again to expand their operations,” said Danville-Pittsylvania Regional Industrial Facility Authority Chairman Vic Ingram. “Having a National Training and Technology Center that is being recognized all over the world headquartered here in our region is truly amazing. Over the last few years, it has been inspiring to see the success that TECHnista has earned and how they have given back to our community. Thank you TECHnista for choosing Danville-Pittsylvania County to continue your success while providing 22 new job opportunities for our citizens.” “The IDA is very proud of TECHnista and all their accomplishments and we are very excited that they have chosen Danville-Pittsylvania County to grow their business,” said Pittsylvania County Industrial Development Authority Chairman John Daniel. “In just a short amount of time, TECHnista has had great success as a tenant of the Pittsylvania County Industrial Development Authority, and now they are investing another $15.1 million into our community while creating 22 additional new jobs. TECHnista is transforming the K-12 education pipeline with their specialized curriculums one lesson at a time, and we thank you for trusting Pittsylvania County to expand your business.” “TECHnista’s decision to make this investment in Danville is another strong vote of confidence in our community and the workforce we are building here,” said Danville Mayor Alonzo Jones. “What makes this especially exciting is the work they’re doing to connect young people with the skills and opportunities that will prepare them for the jobs of tomorrow, specifically in advanced manufacturing and support industries that are critical to our nation. Danville is a great place to grow, and we’re proud TECHnista has chosen to grow here.” “The Cyber Park Shell Building was developed for opportunities just like this,” said Danville Industrial Development Authority Chairman T. Neal Morris. “Having a quality facility ready for a growing company gives Danville an important advantage when projects move quickly. We’re excited to see TECHnista put this building to work, create new jobs, and make a significant investment in our community.” “I am proud to welcome this investment by TECHnista in Southside,” said Senator Tammy Mulchi. “Today’s announcement is another strong vote of confidence in the hardworking people of Southside Virginia. New investment means new opportunities for our families, a stronger tax base for our community, and continued momentum for a region that is proving it can compete and win. I will always work to keep taxes and regulations competitive, strengthen workforce and career training, and invest in the infrastructure necessary to make Southside Virginia one of the best places in the Commonwealth to do business.” “It is great to have TECHnista based in our region and to see it expand its capacity to deploy the training programs nationally,” said Delegate Madison Whittle. “The $15 million expansion and creation of more than 22 jobs will enable some of our brightest local talent to join their training teams. TECHnista has the bold goal of helping to connect K-12 curriculum to workforce development all across the country in support of the Defense and Advanced Manufacturing industries. We are happy that they have chosen us as their launching pad and wish them continued success.” The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with the City of Danville, Pittsylvania County, the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance, and the Danville-Pittsylvania Regional Industrial Facility Authority to secure the project for Virginia. Governor Spanberger approved a $75,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist the City of Danville and the Danville-Pittsylvania Regional Industrial Facility Authority with the project. ###

Virginia Office of Governor | P.O. Box 1475 | Richmond, VA 23218 US Unsubscribe | Constant Contact Data Notice